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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is most likely to have the greatest concentration of smooth endoplasmic reticulum?
A
A cell that secretes enzymes.
B
A cell that destroys pathogens.
C
A cell that makes steroid hormones.
D
A cell that engages in photosynthesis.
E
A cell that manufactures proteins.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the function of the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER): The SER is primarily involved in the synthesis of lipids, including steroid hormones, metabolism of carbohydrates, detoxification of drugs and poisons, and storage of calcium ions.
Identify the primary activities of each cell type mentioned: A cell that secretes enzymes is likely involved in protein synthesis, a cell that destroys pathogens is likely involved in immune responses, a cell that makes steroid hormones is involved in lipid synthesis, a cell that engages in photosynthesis is involved in converting light energy to chemical energy, and a cell that manufactures proteins is involved in protein synthesis.
Relate the function of the SER to the activities of each cell type: The SER is most abundant in cells that are involved in lipid synthesis and metabolism, such as those that produce steroid hormones.
Determine which cell type relies most heavily on the SER: Since the SER is crucial for lipid and steroid hormone synthesis, a cell that makes steroid hormones would have a high concentration of SER.
Conclude that the cell type with the greatest concentration of smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the one that makes steroid hormones, as this activity directly involves the primary functions of the SER.